Tuesday Burn

I leave for Las Vegas tomorrow and will be there through Sunday. Be on the lookout for pictures, audio, video and the usual blog content you've come to know and occasionally enjoy from the summer league. We'll also do our regular chat on Thursday, though the guests have yet to be determined. Rest assured that it'll be worth your time.

So while I make a few last minute trips to the tanning booths, check out some of the best Blazer links on the web.

It sounds like it would be hard to cast a shadow on the affable Oden, whose combination of size, promise and personality has already turned him into a star, but that's what 2006 No. 2 pick LaMarcus Aldridge is doing.

He's arguably been the top big man in the entire event through two games, averaging 22 points and 11 rebounds while shooting 59 percent, and it would be no surprise if he winds up being the player who most benefits from the departure of Zach Randolph, at least initially. It's easy to forget how solid he was late in his rookie season, even getting the better of Tim Duncan one night. If he continues improving at his current pace, fans in Portland are going to have a legitimate Twin Towers combo to root for.

"He's a beast," Oden said of Aldridge. "I didn't know he was that good, but playing alongside him makes me feel better because when I'm not on, I just give him the ball and get out of the way."

If Williams indeed winds up in Miami and if Fisher returns to the Lakers, that will only enhance the Clippers' chances of signing Steve Francis when Francis' all-but-done Portland buyout is complete.

Francis is close with Shaq and is said to have had strong interest in the Heat and Lakers. The Clips, though, were in the lead from the start, with age (Sam Cassell at 38) and injury (Shaun Livingston) concerns at the point and Francis' close pal Cuttino Mobley as their lead recruiter.

-- Also a reminder to give a listen to Primetime on 1080 The Fan this week, as they're broadcasting live from Vegas. I tuned in yesterday and they had a couple great interviews, including one with former Blazers general manager John Nash.